298 – Stephen King & The Final Turn of the Big Combination

This episode needs no attempt at a witty introduction. Stephen King is back to talk about Other Worlds Than These – the concluding volume of The Talisman saga, begun with Peter Straub 45 years ago.   We keep it spoiler-free, but we talk about Jack Sawyer’s journey and how it entwines with The Dark Tower. We reflect on The Talisman and Black House, on Wolf and my heartbreak. We discuss Peter’s inspiration for the story and how King summoned him to bring it to a close. And we even get some hints of what’s cooking in Steve’s brain for future projects. It seems he’s never slowing down, no matter what he say.   I hope you enjoy this.   Other books mentioned: Julia (1975), by Peter Straub Ghost Story (1979), by Peter Straub Redheaded Peckerwood (2010), by Christian Patterson King Sorrow (2025), by Joe Hill Sleeping Beauties (2017), by Stephen and Owen King Trad Wife (2026), by Sarah Langan   Support Talking Scared on Patreon   Check out the Talking Scared Merch line – at VoidMerch   Come talk books on Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram, or email direct to talkingscaredpod@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices